Getting laptop

sjh101

Our laptop has packed up and we can't really afford to buy a new one.

I start a degree in Feb and need a computer to study. I was pondering with the idea of gettting a macbook air as my brother has one and says there really reliable.

Anyway I would like one brand new from the apple store but there is no way I can afford around £850 at the very cheapest.

My problem is that I have seen them selling on Amazon and eBay for around the £400 mark which I probably could afford. There in used but very good condition. Is it a risk buying used, as I can't afford for it to pack up on me without any warranty?

My idea was to buy it used and then if anything did happen either claim on house insurance or take out gadget insurance once I've bought it.

Please advise.

Thanks

imoneyop

Does it have to be an Apple?

You can get Windows machines made by Asus, Acer etc. for about the cost of your secondhand macbook air. Unless your degree involves something processor hungry such as animation or 3d graphics work then one of these should be more than sufficient for your needs.

ColdIron

You want a new laptop but don't have much money. You decide on one of the most expensive ones going. locate used ones and consider paying extra for insurance?

May I suggest you look for a new one with warranty, just avoid Apple, there are plenty of reasonably priced good laptops about

PS House insurance probably won't cover you for a failed motherboard, graphics etc

le_loup

That's the power of hype!

agrinnall

Given that there really isn't a financial question in the OP I'd suggest you abandon this thread and repost on the Techie board for advice on what laptop you can get to fit your budget.

brendon

If you do want apple, can you wait until you go to University -- you'll get 15% off.

dr_adidas01

As Brendon has pointed out if you are going to university apple give 15% off once you take your student card into the store.

As you point out the cheapest is the 11" Macbook Air, though this really doesn't have much storage for all the course work and assignments you'll do.

I would suggest that you go for the 13" Macbook Pro thats £999 with the student discount makes it £849.49. Better storage and slightly faster. I would get saving now!!

As for the hype I've used Macs long before they became the must have item, and have always found them to be reliable and well designed. Plus Apples customer service has always been excellent.

Hooloovoo

sjh101 wrote: »

Our laptop has packed up and we can't really afford to buy a new one ... I was pondering with the idea of gettting a macbook air

[:rotfl:]

Ho ho ho. Don't feed the troll :beer:

societys_child

I've no money but I need a new car . . fancying a Ferrari, what do you think?

Hominu

Like a 'friend' said to me recently: "You should buy an iPhone 5, they might be expensive, but they are the best you can get". He didn't like it when I laughed in his face.

chanz4

Hominu wrote: »

Like a 'friend' said to me recently: "You should buy an iPhone 5, they might be expensive, but they are the best you can get". He didn't like it when I laughed in his face.

follow the sheep